testimonials

“The Seasonals provide a remarkable combination of the three aspects essential to successful bonsai – art, science and downright fun. Having the eye of an artist and the soul of a poet, Michael has a deep respect for, and ability to see, the essential spirit of a tree both in the present and in the future. Students are well served by participating in the full four Seasonals – I’ve so far done that twice. Each student works independently, but with Michael’s close supervision, on trees ranging from previously unstyled yamadoris to established masterpieces. Michael clearly explains the what, when and how of these techniques, but most importantly, students learn the why for each technique. I’ve come away from each Seasonal with new understanding of and enthusiasm for the art of bonsai.”

—Howard

“I learned more in 3 days than I had in the last 12 years. He was a fantastic teacher, artist, and host while there. There were 4 others there and all had been students before me. I am returning in the fall for more training and looking forward to reuniting with the group and enjoying the many fine meals, reviewing the days events. Michael has had a large influence on where I want to go with bonsai design… I would not hesitate in recommending anyone to attend his small group sessions. Thank you Michael!!!”

—Ray

“Having the opportunity to work on such beautiful material provided an experience to learn by doing and for me that replaces 100’s of lectures. To learn by doing cements the understanding and the approach so that I can carry out these seasonal responsibilities confidently thousands of miles away. This morning I even took a fresh new look at what I once considered offending flowering weeds and invasive grasses. I don’t believe any three days has had such a profound reawakening of my soul as to the depth and love of my trees and their lovely companion plants.”

—Randi

“Seasonal workshops at Michael’s are fact filled, hands-on, and fun. After participation in just one Seasonal the knowledge gained transferred into much better care for my own trees. I am especially appreciative of the positive learning environment Michael creates, his sense of humor, dedication to excellence in practice, and his seemingly unlimited patience all of which after participation in four Seasonals has remained consistent. Michael has encyclopedic bonsai knowledge, which he delivers skillfully in methods that reach all learning styles. He is accomplished both in the culture of bonsai and in his method of teaching, and I look forward to the next Seasonal.”

—Linda

“It is like entering a cathedral when you first walk into your yard, and I am honored that you allow me such a learning environment…you make learning a joy.”

—Konnor

“Michael’s Seasonals are excellent! One of Michael’s many strengths is his ability to dissolve bonsai myths and misinformation. Michael’s hospitality is wonderful and the food is great. If you want to have fun, seriously learn bonsai and improve your techniques and your own trees, I highly recommend the Seasonals.”

—John

“I have attended nearly every one of Michael’s Seasonals since he began offering them. His teaching methods at his Seasonals are low-key but very knowledge rich (if you listen!!). My attendance at these Seasonals has seriously changed how I view bonsai. I feel much more confident in what I do with my trees now, both in their horticulture and their aesthetic nature. I recommend these Seasonals to anyone who wants to expand his/her knowledge of bonsai in a format which allows growth and the acquisition of real bonsai knowledge.”

—Roger

“Michael’s Seasonals are a great learning experience. In the studio, Michael has adopted one of the best of educational strategies – he uses “guided practice” as his primary tool. He will demonstrate a technique and then have us repeat it until we have achieved a basic level of mastery. In addition, he has created in the shared studio environment a great opportunity for critical dialogue with like-minded individuals over the Seasonal session. Even though I have been doing intensive workshops for over four years… I always leave re-energized, re-focused and with new nuggets of information to apply to my understanding of bonsai.”